Wolf Watch - Rob Bell

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. (Romans 16:17-18)

Picture from Apprising Ministries

This post is hard for me to write. I know that calling people out and “naming names” of false teachers will bring about much persecution and hatred from the followers of these heretical instructors. I must, however press forward because it is my duty to warn others of the wolves that are parading around in sheep’s clothing (See Matthew 7:15). I will probably lose friends and receive some nasty comments because of this segment, but I am not trying to please people (See Galatians 1:10). I choose to please my God and Master, the Lord Jesus Christ.

The first wolf that I have chosen to point out is Rob Bell. He is the pastor of Mars Hill Bible Church, star of the NOOMA video series, and the author of four books including Love Wins. Most people are probably tired of hearing about Rob Bell because he has been the topic of discussion for a while now since the release of his latest book. His teachings are considered heretical by traditional Christian churches and they have labeled him as a Universalist. What are some of the accusations against Rob Bell and the reasons for calling him a false teacher?

The most notable debate is the reality of an eternal Hell. Rob Bell is more inclined to believe that everybody goes to Heaven, even if they don’t repent and put their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. He tries to deny the existence of Hell by redefining the terms used in the Bible. As stated in a previous post, there is a literal and eternal place of punishment called Hell. Jesus made more references to Hell than He did to Heaven. Rob Bell claims that Jesus was talking about a trash dump outside of Jerusalem, but when the passages are read in context, it is clear that Jesus was not referring to disposing of garbage.

My biggest concern, however, is that Rob Bell seems to focus more on man’s glory and seeking a Heaven on earth concept. This trend is abundant in the New Age and Emergent belief systems. There is less concern for what Christ did to save our souls, and more interest in bettering the lives of others and self. This seems subtle in most of his teachings, but it is very clear who is getting the worship in the works by Rob Bell. Another subtle doctrine of his philosophy is that the Bible is not the infallible, inerrant Word of God. Essentially, Rob Bell is slithering around asking people “Did God really say this or mean that (See Genesis 3:1)?”

I close with the following quotes from Rob Bell:

“When people say that all we need is the Bible, it is simply not true.” (Velvet Elvis)

“Heaven is full of forgiven people. Hell is full of forgiven people.” (Velvet Elvis)

“[About Hell] This is misguided and toxic and ultimately subverts the contagious spread of Jesus’ message of love, peace, forgiveness, and joy…” (Love Wins)

“You will find yourself living more in tune with ultimate reality, you are more and more in sync with how the universe works at its deepest levels.” (Sex God)